Seventy years is a rare milestone in Philippine business, one that speaks not only of commercial success, but of resilience, values-driven leadership, and a deep commitment to nation-building. In December 2025, the Alcantara Group marked this defining moment with a milestone celebration that honored its origins, recognized the people who shaped its journey, and reaffirmed its vision for the future.
Held at Dusit Thani Residence Davao under the theme “Seventy Years Strong: Forward Together,” the anniversary gathering brought together leaders across generations, long-serving employees, partners, and community stakeholders. More than a commemorative event, it was a reflection of how a company that began as a modest Davao-based enterprise in the mid-1950s evolved into one of the Philippines’ most diversified Filipino-owned conglomerates while remaining anchored to its founding principles.
From Davao Roots to National Impact
The Alcantara Group traces its beginnings to Conrado Alcantara and Sons, Inc. (CASI), founded by the late Conrado Alcantara in Davao. At a time when Mindanao was still emerging as an economic frontier, the founder saw opportunity not just in enterprise, but in service believing that business growth should go hand in hand with community development.
This foresight would become a defining trait of the Group. Over the decades, the Alcantara family steadily expanded operations, guided by a long-term perspective rather than short-term gains. The anniversary exhibit showcased this evolution, chronicling the Group’s transformation from a regional business into a diversified organization with strategic investments across critical industries.
Leadership Across Generations
A key theme of the 70th anniversary was continuity particularly the seamless passing of leadership across generations. The presence of second and third generation leaders standing side by side symbolized not only succession, but shared responsibility.
The second generation played a pivotal role in scaling the business and expanding its footprint nationwide. Under their stewardship, the Alcantara Group strengthened its presence in sectors that are fundamental to national development:
- Energy, through the Alsons Power Unit, supporting reliable power generation
- Aquaculture and agriculture, through the Alsons Agribusiness Unit, contributing to food security and rural livelihoods
- Real estate development, through Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), shaping master-planned communities
These expansions were not pursued in isolation. Each business unit reflected a strategic understanding of the Philippines’ long-term needs energy security, sustainable food production, and responsible urban development.
The Role of People in a 70-Year Journey
While milestones often focus on leadership, the Alcantara Group’s celebration placed equal emphasis on the collective effort behind its growth. Stories shared during the program highlighted how employees, partners, and host communities have been integral to the Group’s resilience.
This emphasis on shared values on unity, service, and stewardship has allowed the organization to remain relevant across decades of economic shifts, political changes, and industry disruptions. The Group’s ability to adapt without losing its core identity has been one of its greatest strengths.
Chairman Nicasio I. Alcantara underscored this in his remarks, noting that strategy alone does not sustain a company for seven decades. Rather, it is the consistent commitment to uplifting people and communities that has kept the Group strong.
Davao as the Symbolic Homecoming
Holding the anniversary in Davao was a deliberate choice. As the birthplace of the Alcantara Group, the city represents both history and continuity. The curated exhibit welcomed guests with a visual narrative of the Group’s journey honoring founders, celebrating milestones, and recognizing the leaders who carried the mission forward.
The event transformed the celebration into a homecoming of sorts, reminding attendees that while the Group’s impact is national, its identity remains deeply rooted in Mindanao.
Entering the Third Generation with Renewed Purpose
As the Alcantara Group moves into its next chapter, the transition to third-generation leadership signals both continuity and renewal. Younger leaders are stepping into more prominent roles, bringing fresh perspectives while remaining grounded in the principles that shaped the company.
Among these leaders is Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev, who emphasized the responsibility of sustaining what has been built while adapting to the needs of future generations. For the Group’s real estate arm, this means creating developments that are not only commercially viable, but socially and environmentally responsible.
Alsons Dev’s work reflects the founder’s early vision for Mindanao one that prioritizes thoughtful planning, long-term value creation, and community integration. As urbanization accelerates across the Philippines, this approach positions the Group to play a meaningful role in shaping livable, resilient communities.
Why the Alcantara Group’s Story Matters Today
In an era where businesses are increasingly evaluated on their social and environmental impact, the Alcantara Group’s 70-year journey offers important lessons. Longevity, in this case, is not the result of aggressive expansion alone, but of deliberate choices guided by integrity, patience, and a deep sense of responsibility.
The Group’s diversified portfolio demonstrates how Filipino-owned enterprises can scale while remaining mission-driven. Its sustained presence in critical sectors highlights the role of private enterprise in national development particularly when aligned with community needs.
For Filipino consumers and stakeholders, the Alcantara Group’s legacy reinforces the value of supporting companies that invest not just in profits, but in people and progress.
Looking Ahead: Forward Together
As the celebration’s theme suggests, the Alcantara Group’s future is built on collective momentum. With seven decades of experience as its foundation, the organization is focused on expanding its businesses responsibly, advancing industries that matter, and creating opportunities that endure.
Guided by the same principles that shaped its early years and inspired by the generations who carried its purpose forward the Alcantara Group enters its next chapter with clarity and determination. Its story is not simply about longevity, but about relevance: staying true to its mission while evolving with the times.
Seventy years on, the Alcantara Group stands as a testament to what Filipino enterprise can achieve when leadership, legacy, and long-term vision come together.